In June 2009 OFCOM announced that access to RF bandwidth between 854-862MHz ( known as Channel 69 ) would be removed. Previously, this bandwidth had been available on an annual licence and had been extensively used for multi-way radio mic systems. The changes took effect on the 1st of January 2013.

863-865MHz ( Channel 70 ) is still available for licence exempt use of radio mics in the UK. This bandwidth can be used free of charge throughout the UK. Equipment capable of operating on Channel 70 is a viable choice for amateur radio mic users, although the limited 2MHz of bandwidth available will not normally enable use of more than 4 x systems. There is some concern about interference from 4G mobile devices operating on nearby frequencies. This equipment is therefore not recommended for professional users.

Sennheiser users should choose Range E equipment for Channel 70 use.

An area of bandwidth between 606-614MHz ( known as Channel 38 ) was allocated in 2012 as the replacement for Channel 69. Channel 38 requires an annual licence which entitles the holder to use multiple systems within Channel 38 throughout the UK, both indoors and outdoors and is therefore a good option for hire companies and users who plan to tour in the UK. Channel 38 typically offers enough bandwidth for operation of 12-13 radio mic systems together.

Sennheiser users should choose Range GB equipment for use on Channel 38.

In April 2015 it was announced that access to spectrum between 823-832MHz would be added to the scope of a UK radio mic licence at no extra cost. Whereas users were limited to typically 12-13 systems on Channel 38, they can now also use typically 13 x systems between 823-832MHz. Access has also be provided to 1.8GHz frequencies ( see below ). 823-832MHz spectrum is also well co-ordinated across Europe, so is a good choice for a European tour.

Sennheiser users should choose Range E equipment for use between 823-832MHz.

In April 2015, as well as adding 823-832MHz bandwidth to UK radio mic licences, spectrum between 1785-1805MHz ( 1.8GHz ) was also added to the scope of a standard UK licence. This typically allows use of upto 15 x frequencies. When combined with CH38 and 823-832MHz bandwidth, this allows potential for use of upto 41 x simultaneous radio mic systems on a standard licence. ( This licence would cost £75 per year at the time of writing if booked online ).

Sennheiser 100 Series G3-1G8 ( 1.8GHz ) equipment is suitable for use on this bandwidth.

1.9GHz spectrum is licence exempt for use in the UK. New equipment is being released for use on this spectrum for example Sennheiser's AVX system designed for high quality portable ENG sound capture. Another new product range, Sennheiser Speechline DW, includes high quality 1.9GHz systems designed specifically for conference & spoken voice reproduction. Speechline DW is due to start shipping in October 2015 and is expected to allow use of upto 20 x simultaneous systems.

Use of 2.4GHz spectrum is licence exempt in the UK ( and most of the rest of the world ). 2.4GHz radio mics due not normally use the wifi protocol, however, they do have to compete for bandwidth with wifi and bluetooth devices. This restricts the maximum number of simultaneous systems that can be operated. For example, in a perfect RF environment Sennheiser's EW D1 Series can allow use of upto 15 x simultaneous systems. In real world applications, we expect most users will limit this to between 4-8 systems.

All of the options above are suitable for users who operate their equipment on a portable basis in multiple different locations. If radio mics are permanently installed at a particular venue then a fixed site licence is possible and might be the best choice. Please contact our Sales Department for more information about this option.

If you would like to discuss what radio mic equipment would best suit your needs please contact our Sales Department on 01707 332104. We will be happy to talk you through the options.

The information provided on this page is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time or writing ( May 2015 ). We accept no responsibility ( including for loss or damage ) for your use of the advice on our website. This page is meant as a general guide only and wireless microphone users should contact Ofcom for specific advice. Further information can be found on their website www.licensing.ofcom.org.uk